Journeyman Plumber License in Montana
This guide details the steps to become a Journeyman Plumber in Montana, focusing on the required 144 hours of training split evenly between classroom and clinical hours. The process involves prerequisites verification, training, exams, and certification, typically spanning 4-6 months. Costs can range from $800 to $2,500 depending on choices for training and exam preparation.
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Demand for journeyman plumbers in Montana is robust, reflecting a broader national trend. With a median salary of $77,520 per year and a projected growth of 4.5% by 2034, plumbing offers a stable and lucrative career path. The state currently participates in the larger pool of 504,500 plumbers across the country, showing the essential role these professionals play in infrastructure maintenance and development. Choosing to pursue a journeyman plumber license in Montana not only aligns with a high-demand profession but also ensures a competitive income and job security.
Montana's regulatory environment for plumbers is distinct, tailored to both urban and rural needs across the state. The licensing process is governed by specific state statutes that require passing a standardized exam and fulfilling practical experience requirements. Montana's vast rural areas present unique challenges and opportunities, often requiring plumbers to be more versatile and self-reliant. Major healthcare facilities and burgeoning construction sectors also drive demand for skilled plumbers, making the state an attractive place for professionals looking for diverse work environments.
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for obtaining a Journeyman Plumber License in Montana. Readers will learn about the precise steps to certification, which include educational prerequisites, apprenticeship details, exam information, and registration processes. The guide also covers salary expectations, contrasting regional pay scales, and analyzing job market trends. By detailing the necessary steps and what to expect from a career in plumbing in Montana, this guide aims to equip potential plumbers with all the information needed to make informed career decisions.
Licensing Authority
Montana Board of Plumbers
In Montana, to obtain a Journeyman Plumber License, applicants must meet specific training, examination, and experience requirements. The state mandates continuing education for license renewal.
Official Resources
Montana Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Total Training Hours
- 144 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 72 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 72 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- Four years of documented practical plumbing experience
Certification Exam
- Exam
- Montana Journeyman Plumber Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- $100
How to Become a Journeyman Plumber License in Montana
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $100, background check $50, application fee $100, textbooks/supplies $50
Fastest Path
4-6 months
Typical Timeline
6-8 months
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Montana's Prerequisites
Before pursuing a Journeyman Plumber License in Montana, verify you meet the state's prerequisites. These include being at least 18 years old, possessing a high school diploma or GED, and being physically capable of performing plumbing work. Visit the Montana Department of Labor & Industry website to access the detailed list of requirements and download the necessary forms. Processing times for verifying prerequisites are typically 1-2 days.
Tip
Keep digital copies of all documents as backup for quick access during application processes.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Applicants must complete a background check and health screenings. The Montana Department of Justice provides an online service for fingerprint-based background checks. Visit their website to schedule an appointment for fingerprinting, which costs around $50 and typically takes 1-2 weeks for results. Ensure you are screened for common health requirements for physical jobs, which might include a TB test and basic physical exam.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting appointment early to avoid delays in processing your application.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
To qualify for the Journeyman Plumber exam, you must complete a state-approved training program consisting of 72 classroom hours and 72 clinical hours. Visit the Montana Board of Plumbers website to find a list of approved programs. Attending a non-approved program will result in ineligibility to sit for the exam, wasting both time and money. Compare programs based on cost, location, and schedule to find the best fit.
Tip
Contact multiple programs to ask about financial aid or payment plans that could reduce upfront costs.
Alternative Training Paths
Apprenticeship Programs
In Montana, apprenticeship programs offer an alternative route to becoming a licensed plumber. These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, often sponsored by employers. This path can take longer but typically results in direct employment.
Best for: Individuals who prefer hands-on learning and immediate work experience
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Choosing a training program not approved by the Montana Board of Plumbers results in ineligibility to sit for the licensure exam, leading to lost time and money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Montana Journeyman Plumber Licensing Exam administered by Prometric
Written Test
Questions: 100
Time Limit: 3 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 70%
- • General Plumbing Knowledge: 30%
- • Plumbing Fixtures: 20%
- • Drainage Systems: 20%
- • Venting Systems: 15%
- • Water Distribution Systems: 15%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
The Montana Journeyman Plumber Licensing Exam does not include a practical skills test.
What to Bring
- ✓ Government-issued photo ID
- ✓ Admission ticket or confirmation number
- ✓ Two No. 2 pencils
- ✓ Non-programmable calculator
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Cell phones
- ✗ Smart devices
- ✗ Notebooks or books
- ✗ Food or drink
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 3 hours.
Getting Your Results
Results are issued via email within two weeks. Candidates can also check results online through the Prometric website.
If You Don't Pass
Candidates can retake the exam after a 30-day waiting period. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial exam fee. There is no limit to the number of retakes allowed in Montana.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Review major plumbing codes as questions often reference specific regulations.
- 2. Practice time management to ensure you can answer all questions within the allotted time.
- 3. Read each question carefully, especially the wording, to avoid mistakes on similar sounding questions.
- 4. Use the process of elimination on multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From previous educational institution · Varies, usually free to obtain a copy · 1-2 weeks
Required to prove educational background
Proof of Age and Identity
State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · Cost of ID varies · Immediate to 2 weeks
Valid driver's license or state ID required
Social Security Number Verification
Social Security Administration · Immediate to 2 weeks
Social Security card or official document with SSN displayed
2During Training
Enrollment Confirmation
From plumbing training program · Immediate upon enrollment
Document confirming enrollment in a state-approved apprenticeship or training program
Apprenticeship Agreement
From employer or training program · Immediate upon agreement
Signed agreement between apprentice and program sponsor
OSHA Safety Training Certificate
Occupational Safety and Health Administration authorized training centers · Varies, typically around $50-$200 · Varies by course length
Completion of OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour Construction Safety course is often required
Tuberculosis Test Results
Local health clinic or physician · Approximately $20-$50 · 1-3 days for results
Some training programs require a recent TB test
CPR Certification
American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other certified providers · Approximately $50-$100 · Varies by class schedule, typically one day
Certification in CPR can be required for safety compliance
3For the Exam
Application for Journeyman Plumber Examination
Montana Department of Labor & Industry website · Application fee varies, typically around $100-$200
Must be submitted and approved before scheduling the exam
Exam Fee Receipt
Paid during application process or at a designated testing center · Included in application fee
Proof of payment may be required on the day of the exam
Photo Identification
State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · Cost of ID varies
Valid driver's license or state ID required for entry to exam
4For Certification
Journeyman Plumber Exam Passing Certificate
Received from testing center post-exam · Included in exam fee
Proof of passing the state plumbing examination
Application for Journeyman Plumber License
Montana Department of Labor & Industry website · Licensing fee varies, typically around $150-$250
Submit after passing the exam along with any required fees
Proof of Apprenticeship Completion
From plumbing training program or employer
Official document certifying completion of required apprenticeship hours
Background Check Authorization
Montana Department of Labor & Industry or designated service · Approximately $30-$50
Some states require a criminal background check for licensing
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your name on the Montana Department of Labor and Industry's Board of Plumbers. Collect your physical Journeyman Plumber License certificate from the board or ensure it is mailed to you.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Montana Job Service, Indeed, LinkedIn, and industry-specific sites like PlumbingJobs.com
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Local plumbing contractors, municipal water services, and construction firms. Expect varying work environments; contractors offer diverse job sites, while municipal jobs provide stability.
Resume Tip: List your Journeyman Plumber License, any apprenticeship experience, relevant skills like problem-solving and customer service, and safety certifications.
Interview Tip: Describe a challenging plumbing problem and how you solved it.Explain the importance of safety in plumbing.Discuss how you stay updated with plumbing codes and regulations.
Expected First-Year Salary
Typically, the salary range for a new Journeyman Plumber in Montana is between $40,000 and $50,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Master Plumber License
Accumulate required working hours as a Journeyman and pass the Master Plumber examination.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to different job site conditions, managing customer expectations, staying updated with new regulations and codes. Effective communication and ongoing education can mitigate these challenges.
Journeyman Plumber License Salary in Montana
In Montana, Journeyman Plumber salaries are significantly above the national median, reflecting specialized skills and regional demand. The state median salary is $77,520 per year, compared to the national median of $61,550.
Entry Level
$40,000
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$77,520
$37.27/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$85,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$61,550 national · ++25.9% in Montana
Salary by Metro Area
Highest in state
Competitive with state median
Slightly below state median
Salary by Employer Type
Montana's cost of living is moderate compared to coastal states, making the higher salaries for plumbers more advantageous.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. Some employers may offer tool allowances or continuing education reimbursements.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for Journeyman Plumbers in Montana is expected to align with construction industry trends and infrastructure developments.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for your experience in your area.
- •Highlight specific plumbing skills and certifications.
Job Market in Montana
Montana's job market for Journeyman Plumbers, while reflecting the national growth rate of 4.5% from 2024 to 2034, is influenced by specific local factors including construction booms and infrastructural developments. The state's expansive rural areas and ongoing urban development projects drive demand for skilled plumbers. Economic diversification into sectors like tourism and technology also indirectly boosts construction needs, impacting plumber employment positively.
Top Hiring Areas
Rapid urban development
Growing tech and tourism sectors boosting construction
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Spring and early summer, aligning with construction season peaks
Opportunities
- Specialization in green plumbing
- Contract opportunities with new developments
Challenges
- Shortage of skilled labor
- Geographic dispersion increasing job travel times
Training Programs in Montana
Montana offers various paths for individuals aiming to become journeyman plumbers through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored programs.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 to 4 years | $4,000 to $15,000 per year | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 1 to 2 years | $5,000 to $20,000 total | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | 4 years | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Havre, Montana
Offers extensive training in plumbing and pipefitting
Online & Hybrid Options
Some hybrid options are available where theoretical courses are online but practical training requires in-person attendance.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure quality education and eligibility for licensure exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Journeyman Plumber License program info for Montana
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every year
Renewal Fee
$100
CE Hours
8 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Safety standards, New plumbing technologies
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Montana recognizes Journeyman Plumber licenses from states with equivalent standards. Applicants must verify their credentials and may need to meet additional requirements.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current out-of-state license
- Documentation of experience equivalent to Montana standards
State Agreements
Specific states not listed; evaluated on a case-by-case basis
Additional Exams
Not typically required
Application Process
Submit a reciprocity application along with required documents and fees
Fees
$200
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all documentation, especially proof of experience, is clear and detailed to avoid delays.
Stay informed about continuing education courses well before the renewal deadline.
Recommended Resources
Montana Journeyman Plumber Practice Exam
A collection of practice questions designed to mirror the format and subject matter of the Montana Journeyman Plumber exam.
Plumbing Exam Prep Guide
This guide includes multiple practice tests and updated code references specific to Montana plumbing standards.
Master Plumber's Exam Questions and Study Guide
Offers an extensive review of the plumbing code, calculations, and theory, relevant for both Journeyman and Master levels.
Modern Plumbing Job Guide
Covers practical job skills and technical advice for plumbing apprentices, including tips for the Montana licensing exam.
RIDGID 5700 Power Threader
Used for threading pipes, a critical skill in plumbing assessments.
Crescent 170 Pc. General Purpose Tool Set
Contains essential hand tools for plumbing tasks, necessary for practical training and assessments.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Montana Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12